Manly has been attracting tourists for decades and is seen as one of the most popular day trips when visiting Sydney. It may be the beautiful beach, the slowed down pace of life or the fact that getting here requires taking an incredibly beautiful ferry trip, but as soon as you arrive, you’ll feel like you’ve escaped the city.
In this one-day itinerary, we’ll take you on a journey through the sun-soaked streets, sandy shores, and hidden gems that make Manly an absolute must-visit destination.
One Day itinerary for Manly
AM
Hop off the Manly Ferry (Manly Wharf) then head towards the sounds of the ocean via The Corso , a pedestrian-only shopping, bar and restaurant strip that delivers you right to the sands of stunning Manly Beach .
Top spots for breakfast include The Boathouse Shelly Beach (1 Marine Pde), Jellyfish (95 North Steyne) and The Pantry (Ocean Promenade, North Steyne).
LUNCH
Fancy fish and chips? Try Manly Ocean Foods (108 The Corso) or Fishmongers Manly (Rialto Square). Mexican more your style?
You can’t beat Mex and Co (30-32 South Steyne) right on the beachfront – next-door to the excellent Manly Grill (30 South Steyne) and Manly Greenhouse (36-38 South Steyne). The dining choices to suit all budgets are absolutely endless.
PM
Manly is great for whale watching, with tours departing from Manly Wharf . Always wanted to try stand-up paddling? Now’s your chance at the Manly Kayak Centre (East Esplanade).
Give surfing a go with Manly Surf School (93/95 North Steyne); bike the beach with Manly Bike Tours (54 West Esplanade); or enjoy the walks to North Head and secluded Little Manly .
EVENING
Hugos (Manly Wharf) serves fantastic pizza with views of the docking ferries; Sunset Sabi (26/28 Pittwater Rd) is perfect for mod-Japanese and cocktails; Manly Wine (8/13 South Steyne) serves nibbles and drinks in a high-class setting; The Hold (24 Sydney Rd) has an extensive whiskey menu; while The Old Manly Boatshed (40 The Corso) is a legendary late-night music and dance venue.
